Trail

Brink of the Lower Falls Trail

Trail
A rainbow is cast in the mist from a waterfall over a river that cuts through a deep canyon.

This steep 0.7-mile out-and-back trail drops 600 feet in less than half a mile to the brink of Lower Falls. You'll stand directly above a 308-foot waterfall with 5,000–60,000 gallons per second of water plunging below. Verdict: Extremely difficult. This is a lung-buster descent with a brutal return climb. Only for fit hikers who can handle exposure and intense exertion.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
0.7
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Extreme
Elevation Gain Feet
600

Trail profile

Distance Miles
0.7
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Extreme
Elevation Gain Feet
600
Estimated Time
1-2 hours for fit hikers; 2-3 hours for average fitness.
Trail Surface
Steep dirt trail with rocky sections. Loose rock in places.
Trail Features
  • Lower Falls brink
  • Upper Falls view
  • Waterfall
  • Canyon views
  • Steep descent
Trail Highlights
Stand at the brink of Lower Falls and experience a 308-foot waterfall with 5,000–60,000 gallons per second. Upper Falls visible from a spur at the trailhead.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Brink of the Lower Falls Trailhead, North Rim Drive, Canyon Village Area, Yellowstone National Park
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
Not required. Access by private vehicle.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
Not required.
Fees
Yellowstone entrance fee: $35 per private vehicle for 7 days. No additional fee for this trail.
Trail Status
Open late spring through early fall. Closed in winter.
Seasonal Closures
Closed November–April (typically) due to snow and icy conditions.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
No water sources on trail. Bring 2L minimum.
Accessibility
Not accessible. Extremely steep with 600-foot descent over 0.4 miles. Not suitable for visitors with mobility limitations, heart/lung conditions, or fear of heights.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Steep terrain
  • Cliff edges
  • Exposure
  • Loose rock
  • Sun exposure
  • Extreme exertion
Hazard Details
Extremely steep 600-foot descent over 0.4 miles creates slip risk, especially on loose rock or when wet. Cliff edges with significant drop-offs. Not recommended for people with heart, lung, or other health conditions. Intense sun exposure.
Crowd Level
Moderate to heavy—one of Yellowstone's most popular trails.
Peak Crowd Times
Midday and mid-summer (July–August). Weekends fill quickly.
Best Season
Summer and Fall (June–September)
Best Time To Visit
Early morning (6 AM–8 AM) in late June through September. Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. Aim to finish by noon.
Tips Advice
  • Bring 2L of water minimum—you'll sweat heavily on the descent.
  • Wear tight, broken-in boots with aggressive tread.
  • Use trekking poles on the return climb.
  • Make noise on the trail in bear country.
  • Start before 8 AM to beat crowds and afternoon heat.
  • Don't miss the Upper Falls spur at the beginning.

More details

Park Area
Canyon Village Area
Trail Markers
Trail is obvious and well-worn; hard to get lost despite steepness.
Dogs Allowed
No—pets not permitted.
Biking Allowed
No—hiking only.
Shade Level
Mostly exposed with minimal shade. Full sun on descent.
Emergency Contacts
Call 911 in emergency. Contact Canyon Visitor Center upon return.
Map Recommended
0
Snow Dates
Heavy snow typically November–April. Trail impassable.
Insider Tips
  • Start with the spur to Upper Falls before descending—bonus view.
  • The descent is steeper than it looks. Poles are essential, not optional.
  • Your quads will burn on the return. Serious leg fatigue expected.
  • Early morning light on the falls beats afternoon shadows.
Family Friendly Notes
Not recommended for young children or inexperienced hikers. Older kids (12+) with strong hiking experience and adult supervision may manage with slow pacing. Cliff edges require constant vigilance.
Nearby Facilities
Canyon Village Area: lodging, dining, ranger station, visitor center, restrooms, supplies.
Review Summary
Hikers report the descent is relentless and the return climb is the real challenge. Standing at the 308-foot waterfall's edge justifies the physical cost. This is Yellowstone's most intense short hike for seriously fit hikers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this trail?

Only if you're in serious shape. The 600-foot descent is steep and the return climb is brutal. Estimate 1-2 hours if fit, 2-3 if average fitness.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Not ideal. Steep, exposed terrain means injury risk is real. Hike with a partner if possible. Carry a whistle and make noise for bears.

Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles are essential for the return climb. Boots with aggressive tread are mandatory. Bring 2L+ water, a hat, and sunscreen.

What if I'm afraid of heights?

Skip this trail. The cliff edges are real and the exposure is significant. There's no barrier and the view is directly down 600 feet.

When is the best time to hike?

Early morning in June–September. Avoid midday heat and crowds. The trail closes in winter due to snow and ice.

Will I encounter bears?

Black bears are present. Make noise constantly, never hike alone if possible, and carry bear spray if you're comfortable using it.

Is there water on the trail?

No water sources on trail. Bring 2L minimum and plan accordingly. You'll need more if hiking in heat.

Brink of Lower Falls

0.7 miles out-and-back. Steep climb back. The brink of Lower Falls rewards the grit.

Sources

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated June 2026. Report an issue.